CSC North London Documentary Screening: Technological Disobedience

London

Tuesday, 16 June 2026, 8:00pm

The common phrase ‘Inventar y Resolver/ To invent and resolve' reflects Cuban people’s resilience to the problems rained on them by the USA.

This documentary 'Technological Disobedience' shows that in US-blockaded Cuba, ingenious mechanics and inventors revive old machines in order to survive during a time of scarcity.

When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, Cuba was plunged into crisis. Fuel, food and spare parts vanished almost overnight. This character-led documentary shows how Cubans refused to give up – and instead built a new culture of radical repair. From Havana’s Malecon to small-town back yards, it follows mechanics, street vendors and a teacher-turned-inventor who live by one rule: “invent and resolve”.

A pristine US Plymouth Fury convertible of the 1950s hides a Soviet engine, Japanese gearbox and handmade parts; washing machines become coconut graters, solar dryers and tools for urban farms. Cuban historians and designer Ernesto Oroza reveal the philosophy behind this “technical disobedience”, treating every object as raw material to hack and extend. Far from nostalgia, the film offers a stark snapshot of a future in which resources are scarce and the power to repair may be our most important tool.

With Cuban guest to talk about the problems of the Special Period, how the current situation compares, and what our response can be.

Venue Sands Cinema Studios, Film preview theatre, 82 St Marychurch Street, London SE16 4HZ

Book tickets to attend in person or to watch online

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